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Dramatic rescue operation after tourist boat sinks off Bali coast

There were dramatic scenes off the southeast coast of Bali on Wednesday when a tourist boat carrying dozens of passengers capsized near Nusa Lembongan. The vessel, known as The Tanis, had just departed Lembongan Village around 4.30pm local time with 89 people on board – 77 foreigners and 12 Indonesian nationals – when it was struck by a wave from behind and began taking on water. Eyewitnesses rushed to assist as the vessel tilted, causing passengers to slip into the sea. A large-scale rescue effort was launched immediately, and by 6.30pm all passengers had been safely evacuated, with authorities confirming there were no fatalities or serious injuries. Divers were later deployed to search the sunken boat and surrounding seabed as a precaution, ensuring no one had been left behind. Footage of the incident was shared by @bali.info.official, who reported that the boat was still relatively new, having only been in operation for about three months. According to their post, the boat was offloading passengers from Gili at Mushroom Bay, with its bow resting onshore, when powerful waves began to strike its stern. “The captain made the decision to move the boat back out to sea,” the post explained, “but because the boat was already filled with water, it became unstable. The panic among passengers made the situation worse, causing the boat to tilt and eventually sink.” Despite the chaos, locals and nearby responders coordinated to recover both passengers and their belongings. "A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped rescue the passengers and recover their belongings," the post concluded. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKe5vZHSciB/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKe5vZHSciB/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by BALI INFO (@bali.info.official)</a> </div> </blockquote> Most of the rescued tourists opted to remain in Nusa Lembongan for the night, while only two chose to continue their journey to Sanur Harbor– the original destination of The Tanis, which has a total capacity of 125 passengers. Images: Instagram

Travel Trouble

Aussie teen surfers earn worldwide praise for saving grandmother and grandson

A wave of global praise is crashing over four incredible teenage surfers who risked their lives to save a grandmother and her young grandson from dangerous surf conditions at Adelaide’s West Beach. In a moment of pure bravery and instinct, 14-year-old Kai Nixon sprang into action after spotting a 10-year-old boy caught in a fierce rip current. Without hesitation, Kai paddled through treacherous waters to reach the child, ultimately guiding him to the safety of nearby rocks. But the rescue didn’t stop there. As cries for help echoed across the beach, fellow teenage surfers Cruz Campbell, Louis Kempster and Riley Kellock – who were nearby – zeroed in on a second, even more urgent crisis. The boy’s grandmother was being pulled farther out to sea. Working together, the three boys launched into action and successfully brought her back to shore. Though the teens didn’t all know one another, their combined effort was seamless. “They didn’t know each other so they were two different groups of boys who were able to come together and just execute a really seamless plan,” said Louis’ proud mother, Dana. Now, the story of their heroic actions is resonating far beyond Australia. Interview requests are coming in from media outlets across the United States, and people around the world are hailing the boys as heroes. Among those singing their praises is South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, who offered high commendation: “Nothing but the offer of the highest of praise to these young fellas who have shown extraordinary courage. They demonstrate there’s a lot of good among young people.” Kai, who has been a member of the West Beach Surf Life Saving Club since 2016, is set to be formally recognised for his courage. Club president Graeme Cunningham was effusive in his admiration: “Kai assessed the situation and acted cool and calmly. The outcome was good and he did a fantastic job.” The club will be submitting the rescue for review by Surf Life Saving SA, putting Kai in the running for a prestigious state-level award. Just months before this life-saving moment, Kai had completed his surf rescue certificate – a training that proved invaluable. “The skills they learn are able to be used in real life situations,” Cunningham said. “Our members use these skills when they’re not on patrol.” Surf Life Saving SA chief executive Damien Marangon echoed the praise: “Their quick-thinking and skilled response, undertaken despite the personal risks, are truly commendable and turned a potentially tragic incident into a story of bravery and exceptional rescue.” Thanks to these extraordinary teenagers, a family was reunited, a tragedy was averted – and the world gained four new heroes. Images: 9 News

Caring

"Miraculous rescue": Renter saves stray dog trapped underground

An American renter was minding his own business at his rental home in Longview, Texas when he heard faint barking. The man, who chose to remain anonymous, initially thought the barking was coming from outside, but soon realised that it was coming from below his floorboards. Animal control officer Bobby Jumper was called to the scene and "was very shocked" to find a dog trapped at the bottom of an almost four-metre-deep well underneath the house. The renter did not know there was a well under the house. "I've been doing this for over seven years and that's the first time I've ran into something like this," the animal control officer told the Washington Post. Jumper immediately called in back up from the local fire brigade, who built a makeshift sling to pull the stray dog out from safety. "It took multiple people and a lot of different tools and equipment," he said. The rescue took three hours and the team did consider ripping up the floorboards, but managed to find a way into the house without damaging it. Rescuers said the stray pup, a Basset hound mix, had been trapped for days without food or water, but luckily came out unscathed. The pup was taken to the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Centre and given the name Timmy, after the character known to fall down the well on the TV show Lassie. Timmy has since been adopted by a loving family, with the adoption centre sharing the "rescue story of a lifetime" on Facebook. "We witnessed a heartwarming tale of bravery and kindness that we just had to share," they wrote. "Thanks to the quick thinking and heroic efforts of our local firefighters and animal control team, the dog was safely brought to the surface, shaken but unharmed!" "Thank you to everyone who played a part in this miraculous rescue," the post continued. "It's a true reminder of the incredible bond between humans and animals and how a community comes together in times of need!" Images: Facebook

Family & Pets

Bondi attack victim's father opens up about grief

Former North Melbourne AFL star Kerry Good has spoken publicly for the first time about the loss of his daughter in the Bondi Junction stabbing massacre. Ashlee Good was one of six people killed in the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/family-of-bondi-killer-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">horrific rampage</a> at Westfield Bondi Junction in April last year. She was in the busy shopping centre with her then nine-month-old daughter, Harriet, and was fatally wounded while attempting to protect her baby from Joel Cauchi's attack. The 38-year-old mum managed to hand off Harriet to nearby strangers, an act that saved her injured daughter's life. While Harriet suffered stab wounds and was taken to Sydney Children's Hospital in critical condition, she was eventually able to return home. Ms Good's father opened up about the tragedy in an interview on Saturday. “Last year was very tough,” he said, in his first interview since his daughter's murder. “I just couldn’t wait for the year to end. I couldn’t wait to get rid of it.” The former footy star, who also owns racehorses, had a moment of cheer over the weekend after a year of hardship when his horses, Thedoctoroflove and Taramansour, won at Melbourne’s famous Flemington racecourse. “I actually wore the same suit as I wore to my daughter’s funeral today and it might have helped,” he told Racenet. “It’s a very special day.” Following the attack, a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/outpouring-of-support-for-baby-girl-after-bondi-tragedy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> was started for baby Harriet and her father, Dan Flanagan, which raised nearly $850,000. Mr Flanagan posted a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/heartwarming-update-for-baby-stabbed-during-bondi-attack" target="_blank" rel="noopener">heartwarming update </a>on the fundraising page in August, thanking the thousands of donors, as well as medical staff, friends and family for their support in the wake of his "unimaginable loss." “Nothing will ever dull the pain of losing Ash, but reading your messages and seeing what an impact Ash has had on so many people has provided a lot of comfort.” “The day our family of three became a family of two will never make sense to me, but countless people — including every single one of you who wrote messages and donated through this page — have shown me that while tragic things do unfortunately happen, there is more good in this world, than bad. “While Harriet and I do our best to navigate our new world privately, I want to make one public promise to each of you: that the kindness and generosity you’ve shown us will never be forgotten. “From the bottom of my heart — thank you.” Image: news.com.au

Caring

"Thank god you're here": Couple rescued after 3-day ordeal

A couple in their 50s have been rescued after spending days stranded in Queensland. The couple and their two dogs were stuck for three days in the remote Gulf of Carpentaria, north-west of Staaten River National Park, after getting swept away in flood waters. It is believed their 4WD was overcome by a large wave at a river crossing, when they managed to escape the vehicle through the passenger side window and make it to shore. The man then swam back into croc-infested waters to free their two dogs. The couple and their animals then had to battle no reception and no food for three days, drinking water from the river to get them through. They scrawled "SOS" in the sand, with the distress message eventually being seen by a LifeFlight helicopter from the air. They were airlifted to hospital and treated for dehydration and exposure, alongside their two dogs. It was experienced New Zealand pilot Michael Adair's first week working at LifeFlight and he said the couple had lost hope they would be rescued. "They said, 'Thank god you're here, we didn't think anyone was coming,'" he told the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-12-07/outback-rescue-couple-crocodile-infested-waters/104698102" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABC</a>. "The wife had told us she had been hearing voices in the bush from exposure and had convinced herself that nobody was coming to help them, so she was very emotional when we hugged her." He added that the couple were in good spirits when the helicopter arrived. "These people had resigned themselves to dying and seeing the look on their faces when they saw us and realised they weren't going to die — that's the reason we do this," he said. "They were very happy and jovial to see us and then the reality of the fact that hey … they're about to be rescued — that's when the emotion welled up." Image credits: LifeFlight

Travel Trouble

Tourist's leg amputated in dramatic rescue

A 69-year-old Lithuanian tourist is fighting for his life after having his leg amputated in an attempt to save his life after he became stuck between rocks in a Tasmanian river. The man, who has decades of experience in white water rafting, was kayaking on the Franklin River when he slipped on a rock and his leg became wedged underwater. Emergency services were called to the scene and quickly ran out of options when trying to pull the man from the water. After several failed attempts to free him, and because of fears his condition was deteriorating, the decision was made to amputate his leg above the knee. The decision was made by medical professionals and in consultation with the man, allowing him to be winched to safety and airlifted to Royal Hobart Hospital. Tasmania Police constable Callum Herbert said the rescue efforts was one some of the most intense scenarios he’s ever seen in the region. “Most entrapments would be more simple than this,” constable Herbert said. “This patient was so entrapped it’s involved an amputation of a limb. It’s pretty much the worst case scenario you could get aside from drowning. He’s fallen into the river in an awkward position." Surf Life Saving Tasmania swift water rescue technician Ace Petrie praised the man and his crew for their efforts during the challenging rescue. “His rafting crew had done a great job in securing him as best they could,” Mr Petrie said. Mr Petrie said the efforts to free the man were arduous, with rescuers even attempting to use the jaws of life equipment underwater. "After we assessed his entrapment, we started off with the basic scenarios using ropes and pulleys. We weren’t budging these rocks at all, this went on for approximately 10-12 hours,” he said. “We had to get that equipment into the water, it was quite fast flowing which made it difficult to get it stable at that time. Everyone wanted this guy out. We weren’t giving up.” Mr Petrie added that another issue they faced was that the trapped man spoke limited English, saying, “He had a little bit of broken english, like when we were trying to pull his leg out he could say ‘My leg’s broken’ or 'broken leg; but a part from that we couldn’t take his mind off the situation by talking to him about his family or the trips he’d done. That was really hard.” Ambulance Tasmania intensive care flight paramedic Mitch Parkinson said the man’s outlook on the entire situation was remarkable and he remained “exceptionally strong and robust” throughout the ordeal. “He maintained an exceptionally resilient persona through the night and he tired through the morning. This was an exceptionally long mission.” Image credits: Tasmania Police <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">

Travel Trouble

Queen Camilla "heartbroken" by death of rescue dog

Queen Camilla, who is recovering from a chest infection, has had to make the tough decision of putting her beloved pet dog, Beth, down after she was diagnosed with an untreatable tumour. The news was revealed by Buckingham Palace in a message shared to social media, which read: "A sad farewell to Beth, the Queen's much-loved companion from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home who brought such joy, whether on walkies, helping on official duties, or curled up by the fire". The 77-year-old royal is said to be "heartbroken" by the loss over the weekend. Beth was rescued by Camilla in 2011, and because she was a rescue, the animal charity was never sure of Beth's age. The royal later adopted another Jack Russell, Bluebell, soon after getting Beth, when she became patron of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2017, taking over from the late Queen Elizabeth II. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCg830XISLD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCg830XISLD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)</a> </div> </blockquote> Recalling the moment she found Bluebell, the Queen previously told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Along I went to Battersea, and Beth appeared, and she had just been moved from pillar to post and dumped. "We thought it would be nice for her to have a friend. They found [Bluebell] two or three weeks later, wandering about in woods, no hair on her, covered in sores, virtually dead. And they nursed her back to life and her hair grew again. "She's very sweet, but a tiny bit neurotic, shall we say. "The nice thing about dogs is you can sit them down, you could have a nice long conversation, you could be cross, you could be sad and they just sit looking at you, wagging their tail." The two dogs were often by her side at public events and were even featured in an official portrait alongside Camilla. Pictures of her two pups were also embroidered onto the Queen's Coronation gown. Camilla once said of her dogs: "I cannot imagine my life, my home or my sofas without them". Image: Instagram/ The Royal Family

Family & Pets

Bondi Junction attack victim's family reveals final phone call

Heartbreaking details have emerged of the final video call hero security guard Faraz Tahir made hours before the tragedy. Tahir, was one of six victims killed during the Bondi Junction stabbing attack on April 13, and the only male victim to die in the attacks as he confronted knifeman Joel Cauchi. His loved ones have shared details of the final video call he made before going to work on that tragic day, ahead of a coronial inquest into the massacre beginning on Tuesday. Tahir's family said he was very excited to be starting his new life in a country he described as safe and "very peaceful". "That day ... he was talking to the whole family on a video call in Pakistan, and he was dressed up, and he told us that he was preparing to go to a job," the family told Seven News. "He said it's my first shift in Bondi Junction ... and he was really excited. "He finally felt safe in Australia … he said 'Australia is very beautiful, Australia is very exciting and very peaceful.'" Tahir and colleague Muhammad Taha ran to help when they heard people screaming and shouting. His family said they were proud of the courage Tahir showed during the horrific event. "He was serving as a security guard, and he went above and beyond ... we definitely consider him a hero," they told Seven News. “He did what he was meant to do to protect humanity." “And his sacrifice will make things better in future... to prevent these sorts of incidents happening again.” The inquest is set to go over evidence and hear from a handful of witnesses, which the family said will bring back painful memories. “It is an emotional time... to be going through it again,” they said. "The memories will come back." Images: 7News

Family & Pets

Hero cop from Bondi Junction attack nominated for major award

The hero cop who brought an end to the Bondi Junction stabbing in April has been nominated for Australian of the Year. Inspector Amy Scott, who fatally shot Joel Cauchi during the April 13th attack, is up for the coveted award in New South Wales for her quick-thinking and courage during the terrifying ordeal. Scott is up for NSW Australian of the Year alongside the likes of former cricketer and charity boss Kath Koschel and youth advocate Daniel Principe. The nomination commends Scott for her "unparalleled bravery and dedication to service" during the horror attack, which killed six people and injured another 12. "Without hesitation or regard for her own safety, Inspector Scott responded with exceptional courage, not waiting for backup and choosing to face the threat head-on and alone, a decision that would define her heroism," the statement confirming her nomination read. <div> <div>"Her actions saved countless lives and showcased her unwavering leadership in the face of extreme danger. Inspector Scott's fearless and decisive actions are an inspiration to all Australians."</div> </div> <div> <div>The award recipients for the NSW Australian of the Year will be announced on November 13th.</div> </div> In October, Inspector Scott <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/hero-cop-breaks-silence-on-westfield-bondi-junction-stabbing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spoke</a> about the horrific attack during an NRL event to honour emergency services, telling 9News, "The incident was obviously extremely traumatic for so many people so when people are so kind and acknowledge us in the way they have it's really helped the healing process I would say." Image credits: Nine

News

Bondi Rescue star charged with domestic violence offences

Bondi Rescue star Andrew Reid is facing domestic violence charges over a series of alleged assault in Sydney. The 45-year-old lifeguard and reality TV star has pleaded not guilty to two counts of common assault, which allegedly took place between November 2022 and January this year on the city's North Shore, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. He also faces a third assault charge dating back to March, while a fourth domestic violence charged was dismissed. The allegations relate to the same woman, who has been listed as a protected person under an apprehended domestic violence order against Reid. Reid has appeared at a hearing to oppose the allegations against him. His lawyer Margaret Cunneen told the Sydney Morning Herald that the allegations will be "vigorously defended". "There are three very disparate allegations with a long time in between all, of which on the defence case, could be accounted for by an accident," she said. "There is no hitting or punching alleged. His good character will be squarely raised in the question of proof in these allegations" Earlier this year, the longtime Bondi Rescue star made headlines for helping people during the deadly Westfield Bondi Junction attack in April. Reid, who has first-aid training, aided some of the wounded during the attack that left six people dead. At the time, he had been locked behind a safety door in Myer, before he convinced a security guard to let him out to help a woman who was bleeding. The hearing will continue in March next year. Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). Readers seeking support can also contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636. Image: Nine

Legal

Woman rescued after getting stuck in between two boulders

A NSW woman found herself stuck in between two boulders after trying to retrieve her phone from a rocky abyss in the Hunter Valley. Emergency services were called to the wine region after reports the woman slipped and got stuck between two boulders down a three-metre crevice. Her friends initially tried to rescue her for an hour before calling Triple Zero for help. Photos shared by NSW Ambulance on Facebook showed the woman's feet poking out as she was wedged inside the crevice. Paramedics had to remove the heavy rocks, including winching out a massive 500kg boulder to create a safe exit. The entire process took around seven hours as the woman had been stuck in a tight "S" bend which made it challenging for the rescue team. "In my 10 years as a rescue paramedic I had never encountered a job quite like this, it was challenging but incredibly rewarding," NSW Ambulance Specialist Rescue Paramedic Peter Watts said. "Every agency had a role, and we all worked incredibly well together to achieve a good outcome for the patient." NSW Ambulance confirmed that the woman was unable to get her phone back. Image: NSW Ambulance/ Facebook

Travel Trouble

Man clinging to esky rescued after Hurricane Milton ravages entire state

A man has been dramatically rescued after he drifted more than 50km out to sea after being hit by the terrifying storm of Hurricane Milton. The record-breaking storm system ravaged the US state of Florida on Thursday, as the death toll has risen to 14 at the time of writing. One fisherman survived the storm by clinging to an esky and was rescued by the US Coast Guard in the Gulf of Mexico after his boat was stranded overnight in dangerous waters. “This man survived in a nightmare scenario for even the most experienced mariner,” Lieutenant Commander Dana Grady of the US Coast Guard said of the dramatic rescue. “To understand the severity of the hurricane conditions, we estimate he experienced approximately 75 to 90mph winds, 20- to 25-foot (six to seven metre ) seas, for an extended period of time to include overnight." “He survived because of a lifejacket, his emergency position indicating locator beacon and a cooler.” The storm swept through the city of Tampa, causing widespread destruction throughout the south-east of the state, with many residents now dealing with power outages and extensive debris. Amongst those stranded during the flash flooding were 135 residents of an aged care home, with many wheelchair-bound residents spending the night sitting in water up to their waste before they were rescued the next morning. “This is a neighbourhood that doesn’t have a lot … They’ve lost everything,” Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister told CNN. “These are people who live day-to-day and they have nothing … Your heart shatters for these people.” Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said, “We’ll survey the damage and get people back on their feet – we’ll get through this.” Image credits: Instagram - US Coast Guard

Travel Trouble

Beloved teddy bear left in airport lounge rescued by airline

Staff at British Airways have rescued a child’s stuffed teddy bear that was left behind in an airport lounge, documenting the toy’s safe journey home. The treasured teddy was found in the British Airways lounge at London’s Heathrow Airport by nine-year-old Alex, who accidentally left the toy behind before boarding a flight home to Dubai. After staff found the stranded toy, a new flight and boarding pass was created for Postman Bear, while members of the BA team gave the teddy the”'VIP treatment” with a journey on an airport buggy to “catch up” with the Cabin Crew Operations team in the Crew Report Centre. Postman Bear was then taken to meet the cabin crew on his new flight to Dubai and was pictured “patiently” waiting for his flight at the gate, drinking a cup of coffee and enjoying “some great views of the aircraft” while waiting to board. The teddy’s journey home was lovingly captured by British Airways customer manager, Ed Tumath, who sent the snaps back to young Alex to assure him his beloved bear was being looked after. After touching down in Dubai, the cabin crew took Postman Bear to reunite with Alex and the rest of his family for a “bear-y happy reunion”. Stuart, Alex's parent, recalled the moment they knew the teddy was missing, while praising British Airways for their tireless journey to reunite Alex with his bear. Stuart said, “My son had left his teddy bear - huge sentimental value as he has had the teddy since birth - in the British Airways lounge ahead of the flight. We noticed as the aircraft doors were closing so nothing could be done at that point.” “This was very distressing to my son who uses the teddy as a calming item, especially when flying. This was incredibly stressful and we feared that his beloved teddy may be lost forever.” “Whilst onboard the flight, I took to a series of Facebook groups to seek help in finding the teddy. A member of the group contacted Ed who came to the rescue. I managed to communicate with Ed on the flight and received a picture showing that the teddy had been found, which calmed my son.” “Not only did Ed go out of his way to find the teddy but he communicated so well throughout. He genuinely cared about the situation and worked so hard to get the teddy back to us.” “He arranged for the teddy to board a flight to Dubai a couple of days later and a crew member handed the teddy back to us. Not only did Ed excel in his caring manner and communication, he even provided a few pictures of the teddy's journey, which my son will treasure forever.” “My son was so relieved - words could not express how grateful we are to Ed for his kind act and dedication to getting the teddy back to us. I have been flying with BA for many years - this is the best experience I have had by far and I am overwhelmed by Ed's efforts.” “Sometimes amazing people do incredible things and show such kindness along the way... these things matter. This meant a huge amount to my family and I, and we will be forever grateful.” Image credits: British Airways

International Travel

Hero cop breaks silence on Westfield Bondi Junction stabbing

Amy Scott, the hero police officer who shot Joel Cauchi during his stabbing rampage at Westfield Bondi Junction in April, has spoken about her brave act. On Sunday, the Sydney Roosters publicly recognised all emergency services during the NRL match against Canberra, in what will become an annual event. There were tributes for NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue, VRA Rescue NSW, SES, Rural Fire Service, Marine Rescue, Surf Life Saving Australia and St John Ambulance. Scott was the star of the event arriving in a PolAir helicopter to present the game ball to Roosters captain, James Tedesco. She was given a standing ovation from the NRL crowd, as she spoke about her brave act. “I was just doing my job that day, absolutely” she said. “It was a job I hoped the community would expect from us. I know any of my colleagues would have done exactly the same. I’m grateful that we were able to get there and do what we did as quickly as we did. “Look, I’m a very big believer in taking the support that is offered to you. I had done that significantly prior to anything that happened at Bondi. “The people you go home to, your family and friends, are key. For me, it’s my wife Emma because they deal with trauma you deal with in a different light and she has been incredible. We got married in February and we have two young boys. I’m excellent, I’m doing really well," Scott continued. “I’m enjoying being back at work. I actually just had some annual leave, which was nice. I love my job, I love where I work and I love my team. I’m grateful to be there with them doing day-to-day stuff again. It is (a thankless task) at times, absolutely. “It’s a wonderful day to recognise so many different emergence services and I’m incredibly grateful to the Roosters and NRL for making this happen because there are so many unsung heroes out there, not just with the NSW Police Force, but with all other emergence services, so it’s so nice to have a wonderful, positive, light shed on us all. “It was unreal, a fantastic experience. It’s a privilege.” When asked who she supported in the NRL, the hero police said: “Today I’m a Roosters fan," but she will always remain a Knights fan as she is a "one-town, one-team kind of girl." NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley and NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb also attended the match and praised her for her actions. “What courage Amy Scott has shown this year. She really epitomises policing in NSW. She is very humble,” Catley said. “This is an opportunity for us to say to her: ‘Thank you so much for her courage’. Without her actions, we could have ended up with a different situation that day in Bondi. “She (Scott) is an amazing officer every day of the week,” Webb said. Images: Nine

Caring

"More good in this world": Bondi stabbing victim's partner shares update

The partner of Ashlee Good, who was one of six people who tragically died in the Bondi Junction Westfield stabbing rampage in April, have shared an update on how he and their baby daughter are coping after their loss. Ashlee Good, 38, died in the attack at the hands of Joel Cauchi but managed to hand off her nine-month-old daughter Harriet to good Samaritans in an act that saved the baby’s life. Harriet sustained stab wounds during the attack and was taken to Sydney Children's Hospital in critical condition, but made a full recovery and was able to go home. In the wake of the tragedy, a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/Ash-Good" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page was set up to help support Good's partner Dan Flanagan and Harriet, with the fundraising page now reaching nearly $850,000. Flanagan posted on the fundraising page on Monday, thanking the thousands of donors, as well as medical staff, friends and family for their “overwhelming support, kindness, and generosity” in the wake of his “unimaginable loss”. “Nothing will ever dull the pain of losing Ash, but reading your messages and seeing what an impact Ash has had on so many people has provided a lot of comfort,” he wrote. “The day our family of three became a family of two will never make sense to me, but countless people – including every single one of you who wrote messages and donated through this page – have shown me that while tragic things do unfortunately happen, there is more good in this world, than bad." “While Harriet and I do our best to navigate our new world privately, I want to make one public promise to each of you: that the kindness and generosity you’ve shown us will never be forgotten. From the bottom of my heart – thank you.” Ms Good was one of six people killed in the attack, with the lives of Cheng Yixuan, 27, Pikria Darchia, 55, Dawn Singleton, 25, Faraz Ahmed Tahir, 30, and Jade Young, 47, also lost. Mr Flanagan also shared his condolences to the other families torn apart by the horrific event. “Our lives will never be the same, and I wish every one of you your own strength and hope you’re getting the support required to navigate such incomprehensible and difficult times,” Mr Flanagan wrote. Image credits: GoFundMe

Family & Pets

Bondi cop receives special valour award for "exceptional bravery"

The police officer who stopped the Bondi massacre has been honoured with a valour award at a police induction ceremony. Inspector Amy Scott fatally shot Joel Cauchi in the middle of his terrifying rampage through the Bondi Junction Westfield shopping centre, which resulted in the deaths of six people. On Friday, ten weeks on from the mass stabbing, NSW Premier Chriss Minns announced the officer would receive a Commissioner’s Valour Award “for displaying exceptional bravery in a life-threatening situation” at a police graduation ceremony. “She has been rightly labelled a hero,” he said. “She was calm, decisive, and as a result she saved many lives.” “She gives us all an example of what we ask of our police, many of whom are young, to walk into terrible situations as an ordinary part of their job.” The special award is a commendation for officers who display exceptional bravery in life-threatening situations, and is reserved for the most decorated officers. Inspector Scott was the first officer on scene on April 13th, confronting the 40-year-old Cauchi alone before shooting him dead with a bullet to the chest. While waiting for back-up officers to arrive, Scott performed CPR on Cauchi and some of his victims. The award for Ms Scott was part of a larger ceremony to welcome 169 new probationary constables into the NSW Police at the Goulburn Police Academy. Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

Heartwarming update for baby stabbed during Bondi attack

Six weeks on from the devastating Bondi Junction Westfield stabbing that claimed the lives of six people, the nine-month-old baby who was attacked is continuing her recovery. Baby Harriet was at the shopping centre with her mother, Dr Ashlee Good, when Joel Cauchi began his crazed attack on shoppers. One of Dr Good's final acts was to thrust Harriet into the arms of strangers begging them to "please help, help". Dr Good, an osteopath, tragically died from her injuries but Harriet miraculously survived and was released from hospital on April 21st. Since the attack, kind-hearted Australians have since donated $830,040 on a dedicated <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/Ash-Good" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page to give Dr Good's partner, Dan, and little Harriet "the freedom to go forward into the future without financial burden or worry". "Ash was a ray of sunshine and positivity in every aspect of her life and died a hero saving her little girl from the most unspeakable evil," GoFundMe organiser Steven Foxwell wrote. The donations are still pouring in from friends and strangers alike, often accompanied by heartbreaking messages. "Although I did not know Ashlee, I was deeply touched by her bravery and great maternal love, and my heart goes out to all of you at this difficult time," one person wrote. "I'm so sorry for your horrific loss. I hope the money raised here gives you the freedom to go forward and continue living your lives in a way that would make Ash proud," a second added. "As a mother of two, this really truly caused my heart to ache in a way I haven't felt for a long time," a third said. "I wish for this little girl so much happiness and light in her future. I can't even imagine all the different ways the family are feeling right now." Nicola Britton, the Regional Director for GoFundMe Australia, said that the fundraiser is currently the second-largest in Australia for 2024, trailing only behind another fundraiser focused on humanitarian relief for Gaza. Image credits: GoFundMe

Caring

Molly the magpie carers rescue another native bird

Molly the Magpie's carers have rescued another native bird. Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen, who went viral for the interspecies friendship between their two staffies and a magpie named Molly, shared the update on Facebook. “Meet Charlie the vulnerable little kookaburra,” the family wrote on Tuesday. The Mortensen's explained that Charlie had been in their care since the new year period, after a neighbour discovered him unable to fly following wild weather. “He was found by neighbours huddling at the bottom of a tree, they watched for a day and he was all alone and too young to face the world with many dangers around including a stray cat ready for its next feed we were called over to check out the situation,” they wrote. “Reece was in training for his wildlife licence so with the direction and support of wildlife carers specialising in kookaburras we were able to bring this little kookaburra back to our place.” Unlike Molly who developed a special bond with the family's dogs, Charlie was rehabilitated outside, with his own kin watching over him. “We kept him outside as much as possible so the kookaburras knew exactly where he was and could come in and feed him which they did,” they explained. “At times we would count 14 kookaburras keeping an eye on this little one. He would try to fly and achieved short distances but needed practice with his landing.” The family shared the update after Charlie “found the confidence” to return to the wild. “It was such an exciting thing to witness and to be part of,” the family wrote. It has been a wild year for the Queensland family, after Molly was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/outcry-after-authorities-seize-internet-famous-magpie-from-queensland-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener">voluntarily surrendered </a>to the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation in March, when authorities found the couple were not permitted to care for native wildlife. Over a month later, the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) announced that they would return Molly to the family with a few special conditions, including obtaining a license and meeting specific requirements to ensure her ongoing health and wellbeing. The reunion was definitely one to remember with followers and animal lovers across the country over-joyed at the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/first-pics-of-molly-the-magpie-reunion" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reunion</a>. Images: Facebook

Family & Pets

"My angel": Bondi stabbing victim's emotional reunion with her saviour

A woman who was among those stabbed at Bondi Junction Westfield has finally reunited with the man who saved her life. Liya Barko, an international student from Argentina, was one the victims who was stabbed by Joel Cauchi on April 13 during his violent attack which killed six people and injured dozens more. A mystery man in a green t-shirt managed to save her life, but Barko wasn't able to track him down until now. "I would like to see him again, at least give him a hug," she told 9News on Monday. Barko reunited with her hero, identified as ex-military solider Wayne Tolver Banks on Tuesday, finally embracing the man who saved her life. "Oh my god, I remembered you were so tall," Barko said as the pair hugged. "I'm so happy you're alive," Banks replied. Banks recalled how during the attack Cauchi looked at him and shook his head, as if to say he wasn't going to attack him, before he stabbed Barko. The ex-military soldier sprung to action and quickly moved Barko into a shop to take refuge, where his wife helped him look after her. "I looked at you when I saw the man stab you and I said straight away to myself I've got to help you... I didn't want you to die," he told Barko. "Straight away I knew what I had to do to take control of the situation and the area." Barko also recalled how Banks' wife was there and helped her get through it when she thought she was going to die. "Your wife she was the person who started to shake me when I started to say 'I want to give up'...she is the one who (said to me) 'You are doing really well'," she said. "For me...you were the angel who just appeared at the right moment at the right place." Images: Nine

Caring

Bondi stabbing survivor recalls terrifying ordeal

Stabbing survivor Liya Barko has recalled the moment she came face-to-face with Joel Cauchi in Bondi Junction Westfield, while also sharing how she is still physically and mentally recovering from the incident. The 35-year-old student and cleaner from Ukraine was one of hundreds of shoppers in Bondi Junction Westfield on April 13th, as she entered the shopping centre to purchase a volleyball. In the middle of her errand, she ran into Joel Cauchi during his stabbing rampage. “I think he just looked at me and he decided in that moment, and then I looked at my hands and I was bleeding,‘ Ms Barko said to <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/bondi-junction-stabbing-survivor-recalls-april-13-attack/8ce9d1f2-727a-4767-a23f-886e4e22be84" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. Cauchi reportedly spoke to Ms Barko after attacking her, with Ms Barko alleging he said “catch you” before continuing his rampage through the centre. Another shopper ran to help Ms Barko following her attack: a man in a green shirt who she is still trying to find and express her thanks. The man dragged Ms Barko to safety inside a store and stemmed the blood flow from her stab wound. "When you are on the floor, you’re bleeding, you can see everyone’s expression and some of them were crying, they were scared … for their lives also,” she said. “I would like to see him again, to at least give him a hug, because I don’t know how we would have managed without him in that moment.” The next thing Ms Barko remembers after being stabbed is waking up in the hospital and seeing the friendly face of her doctor, whose positivity kept her going in difficult times of her healing process. “I just remember (he had a) just so, so open smile and happy face,” she said. “He was so happy, I have never seen someone really so happy." “I thought okay, if I die right now, I’ll just destroy his shift. So I can’t die right now because he’s just so happy.” Like many who were affected by the stabbing, Ms Barko, who has been unable to return to work since the stabbing, still has so many unanswered questions about that fateful day. “My question is how it happened? Why a schizophrenic man was there outside with a knife making a normal Saturday afternoon, he just turn it into hell?” Up to eighteen people were stabbed at Bondi Westfield, with five dead on-site and one woman dying later in hospital. Those killed were Faraz Tahir, 30, Ashlee Good, 38, Jade Young, 47, Dawn Singleton, 25, Pikria Dachria, 55 and Yixuan Cheng, 27. Image credits: Nine / Facebook

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"Miraculous rescue": Renter saves stray dog trapped underground

Bondi attack victim's father opens up about grief

"Thank god you're here": Couple rescued after 3-day ordeal

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Queen Camilla "heartbroken" by death of rescue dog

Bondi Junction attack victim's family reveals final phone call

Hero cop from Bondi Junction attack nominated for major award

Bondi Rescue star charged with domestic violence offences

Woman rescued after getting stuck in between two boulders

Man clinging to esky rescued after Hurricane Milton ravages entire state

Beloved teddy bear left in airport lounge rescued by airline

Hero cop breaks silence on Westfield Bondi Junction stabbing

"More good in this world": Bondi stabbing victim's partner shares update

Bondi cop receives special valour award for "exceptional bravery"

Heartwarming update for baby stabbed during Bondi attack

Molly the magpie carers rescue another native bird

"My angel": Bondi stabbing victim's emotional reunion with her saviour

Bondi stabbing survivor recalls terrifying ordeal

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Dramatic rescue operation after tourist boat sinks off Bali coast

Aussie teen surfers earn worldwide praise for saving grandmother and grandson

"Miraculous rescue": Renter saves stray dog trapped underground

Bondi attack victim's father opens up about grief

"Thank god you're here": Couple rescued after 3-day ordeal

Tourist's leg amputated in dramatic rescue

Queen Camilla "heartbroken" by death of rescue dog

Bondi Junction attack victim's family reveals final phone call

Hero cop from Bondi Junction attack nominated for major award

Bondi Rescue star charged with domestic violence offences

Woman rescued after getting stuck in between two boulders

Man clinging to esky rescued after Hurricane Milton ravages entire state

Beloved teddy bear left in airport lounge rescued by airline

Hero cop breaks silence on Westfield Bondi Junction stabbing

"More good in this world": ﻿﻿Bondi stabbing victim's partner shares update

Bondi cop receives special valour award for "exceptional bravery"

Heartwarming update for baby stabbed during Bondi attack

Molly the magpie carers rescue another native bird

"My angel": Bondi stabbing victim's emotional reunion with her saviour

Bondi stabbing survivor recalls terrifying ordeal

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"More good in this world": Bondi stabbing victim's partner shares update